View source for Cramping

== What Does It Mean? ==
Muscle cramping is an involuntary, painful contraction of muscles, often due to electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, or impaired neuromuscular function. Cramping may be associated with deficiencies in key minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium, as well as inadequate hydration. Functional medicine evaluates underlying causes such as metabolic imbalances, poor circulation, and nervous system dysfunction to address cramping at its root.

== How Did We Get There? ==

=== Root Causes: ===

* Electrolyte Imbalances: Deficiencies in magnesium, potassium, calcium, or chloride can disrupt muscle function.
* Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake reduces electrolyte availability and impairs neuromuscular function.
* Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow limits oxygen and nutrient delivery to muscles.
* Metabolic Dysfunction: Kidney dysfunction or abnormal blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels can contribute to cramping.
* Overuse or Fatigue: Excessive exercise, prolonged standing, or inadequate muscle recovery increases the risk of cramps.
* Medication Effects: Diuretics, statins, or other medications can lead to mineral depletion.

=== Signs & Symptoms: ===

* Sudden, painful muscle contractions
* Muscle stiffness or tightness
* Fatigue and weakness, especially in the legs
* Increased cramping during exercise or at night
* Sensitivity to temperature changes (heat or cold-induced cramps)

=== Lab Test Findings ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Lab Test Name'''
|'''Expected Changes'''
|'''Optimal Range'''
|-
|Albumin
|Decreased
|4.50-5.00g/dL
|-
|Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
|Increased/Altered
|10.00-16.00 mg/dL
|-
|Calcium
|Decreased
|8.90-9.50 mg/dL
|-
|Chloride
|Altered
|100.00-106.00 mEq/L
|-
|Creatinine
|Altered
|0.80-1.10 mg/dL
|-
|Hemoglobin
|Altered
|13.50-14.50 g/dL
|-
|Magnesium, RBC
|Decreased
|6.00-6.80 mg/dL
|-
|Magnesium, Serum
|Decreased
|2.20-2.50 mg/dL
|-
|Phosphorus (Phosphate)
|Altered
|3.00-4.00 mg/dL
|-
|Potassium
|Decreased
|4.00-4.50 mEq/L
|-
|RBC (Red Blood Cell Count)
|Altered
|4.20-4.90 cells/μL
|-
|Sodium
|Altered
|137.00-142.00 mEq/L
|-
|Specific Gravity (Urinalysis)
|Altered
|1.005-1.030
|-
|Total Protein
|Altered
|6.90-7.4 g/dL
|-
|Uric Acid
|Increased
|3.50-5.40 mg/dL
|}

== How Do We Treat It? ==

=== Functional Medicine Approach ===
The treatment protocol aims to restore electrolyte balance, optimize hydration, and support neuromuscular function.

=== Supplement Protocol ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Supplement''' 
|'''Function'''
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|Endura
|Enhances hydration and electrolyte balance
|1 packet with or without food, twice daily
|-
|Magnesium
|Supports muscle relaxation and reduces cramping
|2 capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|Reacted Magnesium & Potassium
|Provides essential minerals for neuromuscular function
|1 capsule with or without food,daily
|}

=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===

* Optimize Hydration: Increase water intake and include electrolytes in fluid replenishment.
* Nutrient-Dense Diet: Incorporate magnesium-rich foods (leafy greens, nuts, seeds) and potassium-rich foods (bananas, avocados, sweet potatoes).
* Muscle Recovery Practices: Stretch regularly, perform gentle movement, and use warm baths with Epsom salts.
* Monitor Medication Side Effects: Evaluate medications that may contribute to electrolyte imbalances.
* Improve Circulation: Engage in regular movement and avoid prolonged sitting or standing.